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PUTRAJAYA has clarified that holders of the Malaysian Halal Certification are not prohibited from using images, illustrations or decorations associated with non-Islamic religious celebrations, as long as such displays do not compromise the principles of halalan thoyyiban.
Halalan thoyyiban is the core principle underpinning halal regulation and certification, especially as administered by JAKIM and state Islamic authorities. It goes beyond whether something is merely “halal” in a legal sense.
New Straits Times reported Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department for Religious Affairs Datuk Dr Zulkifli Hasan saying today the use of non-permanent festive decorations, images, ornaments and illustrations on food products is allowed under existing halal guidelines.
However, he stressed that items linked directly to religious rituals or worship remain prohibited.
He added festive decorations displayed within certified premises must not feature the Malaysian Halal Certification certificate or the official halal logo.
“This decision is in line with the ruling made by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia in 2023, which determined that there is no restriction on SPHM holders using images, illustrations, or decorations related to non-Islamic religious celebrations,” he said in a statement.
Zulkifli explained that the ruling applies specifically to matters involving festive decorations in kitchens or outlets operated by hotels and food premises that hold halal certification.
He added that respect for cultural and religious diversity is a defining element of Malaysia’s multiracial society.
“In this regard, industry players are encouraged to continue complying with existing halal standards without disregarding the importance of racial and religious harmony,” he said.
Zulkifli also advised hotels and food outlets with halal certification to maintain close communication with the relevant halal authorities to ensure accurate guidance and clarification whenever issues arise.
“Close cooperation between state Islamic religious authorities, Jakim, and industry players is essential to ensure halal policies and guidelines are implemented prudently, while safeguarding the integrity of Malaysia’s halal certification and maintaining social harmony,” he added. - December 20, 2025